Definition

The meninges are a protective lining around the brain and spinal cord. A meningioma is a tumor of these linings. Most meningiomas do not cause symptoms. But, if the meningioma grows, it can push on important parts of the brain. These tumors may be graded 1-3, with 3 being the most aggressive.

Malignant meningiomas (grade 3), also called anaplastic, are less common. These tumors are faster growing and very likely to return.

Treatment

Treatment will depend on the size and location of the tumor, its rate of growth, and your general health. The main types of treatment for meningiomas are:

Surgery

Surgery may be recommended if the tumor is located in an area that is easily reached. Most surgeries can be done without causing neurological damage.

Embolization

Tumors need blood flow to survive. In some instances, prior to surgery, a catheter may be inserted into blood vessels supplying the tumor. It will disrupt the flow of blood to the tumor. This will make the tumor shrink. The smaller tumor can then be removed with surgery.

Radiation Therapy

Some tumors may be located in an area that is difficult or too dangerous to operate on. Radiation may be used on its own if the tumor is causing symptoms and cannot be removed with surgery. Radiation therapy is an effective way of treating the tumor and stopping its growth.

If the tumor is a higher grade, radiation is generally considered. In this case, radiation may be given either on its own or after surgery to help prevent the tumor from coming back.

Your radiation oncologist will describe how the therapy is delivered and how many treatments are needed. You may receive 25-40 treatments on a daily basis, or fewer treatments if you are having stereotactic radiosurgery. This type of treatment delivers higher doses of radiation during each treatment.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy
is the use of drugs to kill cancer cells. Traditional chemotherapy as well as other systemically (oral or IV) therapies are used when other treatment methods fail.

Prevention

There are no current guidelines to prevent meningiomas.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.